Chicken soup is a dish that transcends borders, cultures, and generations. Across continents, nearly every cuisine has its own beloved version—each with unique ingredients, aromas, and stories. Whether it’s the restorative American classic, the zesty Mexican tortilla soup, or the creamy Greek avgolemono, chicken soup is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of comfort, healing, and togetherness. These bowls of warmth are often passed down through families, served to soothe the sick, or shared to celebrate special occasions. They reflect local traditions, showcase regional produce, and bring people together in times of joy and need. In this collection, we journey through 14 comforting chicken soup recipes from around the world. Each recipe is a celebration of culture and flavor, offering a new way to experience the universal magic of chicken soup. So grab your biggest pot, gather your favorite ingredients, and get ready to travel the globe—one bowl at a time.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food in American kitchens, cherished for its soothing flavors and restorative qualities. This iconic soup begins with a rich, homemade chicken broth, simmered slowly with bone-in chicken, carrots, celery, and onions. The slow simmering extracts every bit of flavor and nutrition, creating a golden, aromatic base that forms the heart of the soup. Once the chicken is tender, it’s shredded and returned to the pot along with hearty egg noodles, which soak up the savory broth and add a satisfying bite. A touch of fresh parsley or dill at the end brightens the flavors, while a squeeze of lemon can add a subtle zing. What sets this soup apart is its simplicity—each ingredient shines, and the result is a bowl that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, seeking comfort on a chilly day, or simply craving something wholesome, chicken noodle soup delivers every time. It’s endlessly customizable: add garlic for depth, swap in different vegetables, or use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Serve it with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. This classic is more than just a remedy; it’s a tradition passed down through generations, bringing comfort and connection with every spoonful. Get the recipe: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup (Mexico)
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a vibrant, zesty dish that captures the bold flavors of Mexico in every bite. This soup starts with a tomato-based broth, seasoned with cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion, then simmered with shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. The real magic comes from the toppings: crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime elevate the soup to something truly special. Some versions include roasted poblano peppers or chipotle for extra depth and smokiness, while others add cheese or crema for richness. Chicken tortilla soup is hearty enough to serve as a main course and is perfect for gatherings, as everyone can customize their own bowl with their favorite toppings. The combination of textures—crunchy, creamy, and tender—makes every spoonful exciting. This soup is a celebration of Mexican cuisine’s love for bold, layered flavors, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken and pantry staples, making it as practical as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed on a cool evening or as a festive lunch, chicken tortilla soup brings warmth and joy to any table. Get the recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Tom Kha Gai (Thailand)
Tom Kha Gai is a Thai coconut chicken soup that’s both comforting and exhilarating, thanks to its balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors. The soup’s base is coconut milk infused with galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, creating an aromatic, silky broth. Tender pieces of chicken and mushrooms are simmered in the broth, while Thai chilies add gentle heat. A splash of fish sauce and fresh lime juice at the end brings the flavors to life, making each spoonful a burst of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes. Tom Kha Gai is typically garnished with fresh cilantro and served with jasmine rice. It’s a soup that’s as restorative as it is flavorful, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little culinary adventure. The combination of creamy coconut and bright citrus makes it a standout among global chicken soups. Get the recipe: Tom Kha Gai
Chicken and Rice Soup (Global)
Chicken and Rice Soup is a universal comfort dish, found in countless variations across the world. Whether it’s the American classic, the Latin American “canja de galinha,” or Asian congee, the combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic vegetables creates a nourishing, satisfying meal. The soup typically starts with a flavorful chicken broth, simmered with onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Rice is added and cooked until tender, absorbing the savory flavors of the broth. Some versions include fresh herbs, lemon, or ginger for extra brightness. Chicken and rice soup is easy to customize—add spinach, peas, or corn for more veggies, or spice it up with a dash of hot sauce. It’s the perfect meal for a cold day, a quick lunch, or a comforting dinner when you need something simple yet deeply satisfying.
Get the recipe: Chicken and Rice Soup
Avgolemono (Greece)
Avgolemono is Greece’s famous lemon chicken soup, cherished for its creamy texture and bright, tangy flavor. The soup starts with a rich chicken broth, to which rice or orzo is added and simmered until tender. The magic happens when eggs and fresh lemon juice are whisked together and slowly tempered with hot broth, then stirred back into the pot to create a silky, creamy consistency—without any dairy. Shredded chicken is added, and the soup is finished with plenty of fresh dill or parsley. Avgolemono is both light and deeply satisfying, offering a unique blend of comfort and freshness. It’s often served as a starter at Greek celebrations or as a soothing meal for those feeling under the weather. The combination of citrus and savory chicken is uplifting, making this soup a favorite for any time of year. Get the recipe: Avgolemono
Homemade Chicken Ramen (Japan)
Chicken Ramen is a soul-warming Japanese noodle soup that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. The foundation is a savory broth, often made by simmering chicken bones, ginger, garlic, and scallions for hours to develop depth and umami. Ramen noodles are cooked until springy and served in the hot broth, topped with tender slices of chicken, soft-boiled eggs, nori, and fresh greens like spinach or bok choy. The beauty of chicken ramen lies in its layers of flavor and customizable toppings—add corn, bamboo shoots, or chili oil for extra flair. This soup is perfect for slurping on a cold day or whenever you crave something hearty and comforting. Making ramen at home can be as simple or as elaborate as you like, but the result is always a bowl of pure comfort that rivals your favorite ramen shop. Get the recipe: Chicken Ramen
Hot and Sour Soup (China)
Hot and Sour Soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its bold, invigorating flavors and satisfying texture. The soup features a tangy, spicy broth made with vinegar, white pepper, and soy sauce, thickened with a touch of cornstarch. Sliced chicken, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu are simmered in the broth, creating a hearty, protein-rich dish. Beaten eggs are often swirled in at the end for a silky finish. The balance of heat and acidity makes this soup both appetizing and refreshing, perfect for stimulating the appetite or clearing the sinuses. Hot and sour soup is a favorite at Chinese restaurants but is surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to adjust the spice and sourness to your liking. It’s a wonderful way to experience the complexity and depth of Chinese flavors in a single, comforting bowl.
Get the recipe: Hot and Sour Soup
Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Italy)
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an Italian-inspired comfort dish that combines pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and vegetables in a creamy, flavorful broth. The soup starts with a base of sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, to which chicken broth and shredded chicken are added. Soft potato gnocchi are cooked directly in the soup, absorbing the savory flavors and adding a delightful chewiness. A splash of cream and a handful of fresh spinach or kale finish the dish, making it rich and satisfying. Chicken gnocchi soup is perfect with crusty bread for dipping and is a favorite for cozy dinners or special occasions. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a standout among Italian soups, offering comfort and indulgence in every spoonful. Get the recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Thukpa (Tibet/Nepal)
Thukpa is a warming noodle soup from Tibet and Nepal, beloved for its bold flavors and nourishing qualities. The soup features a savory broth infused with ginger, garlic, and local spices, simmered with chicken, tomatoes, and a variety of fresh vegetables. Wheat or rice noodles are added, making the soup hearty and filling. Thukpa is often finished with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions for brightness. This dish is especially popular in the Himalayan region, where it provides comfort and sustenance during cold mountain nights. Thukpa is highly customizable—add chili for heat, use different vegetables, or swap in rice noodles for a gluten-free version. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for adventurous eaters and anyone seeking a taste of Himalayan hospitality. Get the recipe: Thukpa
White Chicken Chili (USA/Mexico)
White Chicken Chili is a creamy, mildly spicy soup that blends the flavors of the American Southwest and Northern Mexico. The soup features tender chicken, white beans, green chiles, and aromatic spices like cumin and coriander, all simmered in a savory broth. A splash of cream or sour cream gives the soup its signature richness, while toppings like shredded cheese, cilantro, and avocado add freshness and texture. White chicken chili is hearty enough to serve as a main course and is perfect for game days, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners. It’s a delicious twist on traditional chili, offering comfort and warmth with every spoonful. Get the recipe: White Chicken Chili
Canja de Galinha (Brazil)
Canja de Galinha is a beloved chicken and rice soup from Brazil and Portugal, cherished for its soothing, aromatic qualities. The soup starts with homemade chicken broth, simmered with rice, carrots, onions, and sometimes potatoes or peas. Shredded chicken is added, and the soup is finished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Canja de galinha is often served to comfort the sick or weary, believed to have restorative powers. Its gentle flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a staple in Brazilian and Portuguese homes, especially during colder months or family gatherings. This soup is simple yet deeply satisfying, offering a taste of tradition and hospitality in every bowl. Get the recipe: Canja de Galinha
Ethiopian Peanut-Chicken Soup (Ye Ocholoni Ina Doro Shorba)
Ethiopian Peanut-Chicken Soup (Ye Ocholoni Ina Doro Shorba) is a thick, warming soup that combines the richness of peanuts with the bold flavors of Ethiopian spices. The soup features chicken simmered with onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and Berbere spice mix, then thickened with ground peanuts for a creamy, nutty texture. The result is a hearty, beautifully spiced soup that’s both comforting and deeply flavorful. Serve it with injera or crusty bread for a complete meal. This soup is perfect for adventurous eaters and anyone seeking to explore the vibrant flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. Get the recipe: Ethiopian Peanut-Chicken Soup
Chicken Soup Rasam (Tamil Nadu, India)
Chicken Soup Rasam is a South Indian specialty known for its spicy, tangy broth infused with black pepper, garlic, and local spices. The soup features chicken simmered with tomatoes, tamarind, curry leaves, and a blend of spices, creating a bold, aromatic dish. Chicken soup rasam is often served as a remedy for colds or to warm up during the monsoon season. Its invigorating flavors and light, brothy texture make it a favorite in Tamil Nadu households. Serve it with steamed rice or enjoy it as a light starter. Get the recipe: Chicken Soup Rasam
Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken features chicken marinated in bold Caribbean spices, then braised and simmered with vegetables, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. The result is a deeply flavorful, aromatic soup with a rich, brown broth and a gentle kick of heat. This soup is often served with rice or fried plantains, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a celebration of island flavors and is perfect for anyone seeking a taste of the Caribbean in a comforting bowl. Get the recipe: Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
Chicken soup is more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of comfort, healing, and the universal language of home cooking. From the creamy richness of Greek avgolemono to the spicy kick of Thai Tom Kha Gai, these 14 recipes showcase the incredible diversity and creativity of chicken soups around the world. Each bowl tells a story, reflecting local traditions, ingredients, and the warmth of sharing food with loved ones. Whether you’re seeking to soothe a cold, warm up on a chilly night, or simply explore new flavors, these global chicken soups offer something for every taste and occasion. So gather your ingredients, invite your family and friends, and let these comforting recipes bring a world of flavor and joy to your table—one bowl at a time.
